On September 22, 2025, Amnesty International demanded the freedom of 36 Movement for the Renaissance of Cameroon (MRC) supporters held for five years.
The group labeled their detention as unjust, stemming from peaceful protests against President Paul Biya’s long rule.
Harsh Sentences
Arrested in 2019, the MRC activists faced charges of rebellion and attempted insurrection, receiving sentences of one to seven years.
Their imprisonment reflects Cameroon’s clampdown on dissent, Amnesty said.
Rising Tensions
Tensions have spiked ahead of the October 12 presidential election. In August, authorities arrested 54 MRC members in Yaoundé after barring their leader, Maurice Kamto, from running.
Though released on bail, these arrests signal shrinking civic freedoms.
The UN Human Rights High Commissioner has flagged concerns over voters’ ability to express their will.
Biya’s Long Reign
President Paul Biya, 92, in power for nearly 43 years, is Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, trailing only Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang.
Seeking an eighth term, he faces 11 rivals, including Issa Tchiroma Bakary. A win could keep him in office until age 100.
Cameroon’s Challenges
With 30 million people, Cameroon grapples with a deadly secessionist conflict and widespread corruption, hampering growth despite rich oil and mineral resources.
UN data shows 43% of citizens live below basic living standards, lacking adequate income, education, and healthcare.
Urgent Action Needed
Amnesty’s call highlights the need for Cameroon to address political repression and ensure fair elections, as the nation faces mounting human rights and economic struggles.
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